Okefenokee Technical College’s Phi Beta Lambda (PBL) chapter celebrated its accomplishments and members at the organization’s first annual recognition ceremony September 2, 2010, in the OTC Miller Lecture Hall.

The chapter has worked hard to be a viable philanthropic source for the community. During PBL’s last fiscal year, October 09 - September 10, members planned and implemented numerous community service activities. They purchased and collected toiletry items to make a gift basket and presented it to Satilla Care Nursing Home, bagged groceries to raise funds for March of Dimes, collected clothing for International Rescue Committee (IRC), and donated pants and hats for premature babies to the Ronald McDonald House in Savannah. PBL advisors and members made the pants and hats themselves from old t-shirts.

The recognition ceremony gave advisors an opportunity to reflect on and share the club’s successes and recognize those responsible. Ms. Christine Leclerc Whitley, PBL advisor, welcomed guests to the celebration. Jacqueline Wallace, 2009-10 PBL historian, gave the invocation.

On behalf of all club members, Ms. Evans expressed appreciation to Marcia Braddock (unable to attend), Jason Strickland, and Christine Leclerc Whitley for their support throughout the year. Advisors volunteer their time and talents to guide officers and help coordinate meetings and activities.

Stepping up to take leadership responsibility for the coming year are incoming officers President Monica Williams, Vice-President Jan Prescott, Secretary/Treasurer Amanda Wild, and Parliamentarian Jacqueline Wallace.

PBL is a business career student organization that gives members the opportunity to expand in the areas of communication, leadership skills, technical knowledge and teamwork. Through regional and state competition, students are afforded the chance to compete in events testing their business knowledge and skills. Top state winners then are eligible to compete for honors at the National Leadership Conference. Today’s business environment not only requires a degree; it requires leadership skills, technical knowledge, and business know-how. Phi Beta Lambda helps prepare student for careers and for life.

Photo 1
PBL Secretary/Treasurer Lucinda Evans (left) presented a gift to Christine Leclerc Whitley for her leadership and service to the organization as a club advisor.

Photo 2
PBL President Octavious Clark (left) presented a gift to Jason Strickland for his leadership and service to the organization as a club advisor.

Photo 4
Diane Cannon (left) was among many PBL members honored at the ceremony for their participation in one or more community service projects.

Photo 5
Elizabeth Velez-Hill (right) presented Octavious Clark with a certificate of appreciation for his leadership as PBL president over the past year. Clark was active in the organization and encouraged participation from members.

Photo 6
OTC President Dr. Gail Thaxton was recognized by Jacqueline Wallace for supporting PBL throughout the year.